Media Release
NT WorkSafe launches fireworks safety campaign
Monday 20 June 2005
NT WorkSafe Manager Prevention, Steve Caldwell, today launched the 2005 Fireworks Safety Strategy with a controlled display of fireworks safety testing.
Mr Caldwell said: “All fireworks are tested stringently every year to ensure that they comply with the performance criteria laid down by Australian Standards.
"Those fireworks that do not comply are not permitted to go on sale.”
An announcement will be made next week as to the number and nature of fireworks banned this year.
Mr Caldwell said NT WorkSafe officers are also responsible for ongoing monitoring of the transport, storage, testing, use and sale of fireworks in the Northern Territory.
NT WorkSafe has again coordinated a fireworks safety strategy across the Territory with stakeholders, including Police, Fire and Rescue, the Department of Health and Community Services, local government and the RSPCA.
“Fireworks safety information has been distributed to all Government and non-Government schools and safety guidelines are being included with school newsletters before Term 2 ends this week,” Mr Caldwell said.
"Safety bulletins will be displayed at each fireworks retail outlet and retailers are being advised to remind customers of the need to follow manufacturers’ instructions and also the guidelines issued by NT WorkSafe.”
Mr Caldwell said, “Safety considerations must always take priority.”
"Territory Day is a special day. The Northern Territory is one of only a few jurisdictions in Australia that allows residents to purchase and use fireworks for a celebration.
"People must act responsibly when they set up and operate their own private fireworks displays. Young children must be carefully supervised at all times and people should take special care to look after their pets.”
Mr Caldwell said he wanted to emphasise that:
- The sale of fireworks will be restricted to two days, Thursday 30 June and Friday 1 July, as was the case last year. Fireworks can only be purchased between the hours of 9am and 9pm on those two days from approved fireworks retailers. They cannot be sold to persons under 16 years of age.
- Fireworks can only be ignited between 6pm and 11pm on Territory Day, Friday 1 July 2005. Otherwise, special permits are required.
- Unused fireworks can be handed into NT WorkSafe and your local Police and Fire stations.
- Strict penalties apply under the Dangerous Goods Act for breaches of fireworks regulations with fines of up to $3000.
Mr Caldwell said, as in previous years, there would be major fireworks displays at public venues throughout the Northern Territory.
At Mindil Beach there will be an area set aside for people who want to let off their fireworks and a separate area for viewing of those fireworks. These areas will be marked by tapes and signs and people are asked to obey the signs. The Mindil Beach area will also be patrolled by Police and WorkSafe Officers.
For further information contact NT WorkSafe on 8999 5545 or visit their website at www.worksafe.nt.gov.au.